The Waymark Foundation: The Crisis Map
A step-by-step navigation guide for families when a behavioral health crisis escalates to law enforcement involvement or involuntary examination (Baker Act).
1
Phase 1
Law Enforcement Contact
2
Phase 2
Involuntary Examination
3
Phase 3
Legal Limbo
4
Phase 4
Discharge & Safety
Phase 1
The Immediate Escalation
Law Enforcement Contact — When the police arrive, the environment becomes high-stakes. Your goal is to move the situation from a "criminal" lens to a "clinical" lens.
Request a CIT Officer
Immediately ask for a Crisis Intervention Team officer. These officers have specialized training in mental health and de-escalation.
The "Clinical Disclosure"
State clearly: "This is a mental health crisis, not a criminal act. My child has a history of [Diagnosis/Trauma]."
Secure the Environment
If possible, move other children to a different room. Turn off loud music or bright lights to lower sensory triggers.
Document Personnel
Note the names and badge numbers of all officers present. This is vital for the "Paperwork Trauma" phase later.
Phase 2
The Involuntary Examination
The Baker Act — If your child is taken for an involuntary examination, the next 72 hours are critical for advocacy.
Phase 3
Navigating the "Legal Limbo"
The Waiting Period — While your child is in the facility, the "waiting game" begins. Use this time to prepare for the court or clinical follow-up.
Demand an Evaluation Timeline
Ask the facility: "When is the psychiatrist scheduled to perform the initial evaluation?"
Daily Logs
Keep a log of every call you make to the facility, the name of the person you spoke to, and the update provided.
Legal Counsel
If you are in an custody battle, notify your attorney immediately. A Baker Act can impact custody proceedings; ensure the narrative is framed as "seeking necessary medical care."
Phase 4
Discharge & Safety Planning
Do not accept a discharge until a safety plan is in place that addresses the root cause of the crisis.
1
The "Transition Meeting"
Request a meeting with the clinical team before the child leaves the facility.
2
Medication Review
Ensure you have a written list of any new medications and their side effects before departure.
3
Follow-up Appointments
Ensure the facility has scheduled follow-up therapy or psychiatric care within 7 days of discharge.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided by The Waymark Foundation for peer support and informational purposes. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. In a life-threatening emergency, always call 911 or your local crisis hotline.
The Waymark Foundation of Florida, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization [Pending]. The information provided on this website and in our resources is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or clinical advice. Accessing this information does not create an attorney-client or provider-patient relationship. Laws regarding behavioral health are subject to change; always consult with a licensed attorney or medical professional regarding your specific situation.